You can’t help but think of the footsteps that came before you when exploring the majestic landscapes in Siskiyou, or the lives of those that have seen these epic views throughout the passage of time. Siskiyou is a unique place where the stories of ancient peoples still echo through the forests, rivers, and sacred sites. Long before the arrival of European settlers in search of gold, this region was home to a vibrant tapestry of Indigenous tribes whose presence and traditions continue to shape the land today.
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the United States, and here in Siskiyou. This month is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate diversity, acknowledge historical truths, and support efforts that preserve Native languages, lands, and cultural practices for future generations. It is a reminder that stewardship of the land is a responsibility we all carry.
Local Carla Charraga with ties to the Native American community in Siskiyou, gives her perspective on the Indigenous history in the region and how visitors and locals can show honor to those who came before us by respecting the land and leaving it for future generations to enjoy.
One of the strongest assets in Siskiyou County is its people. The small town, tight knit communities that call this place home. One of the most important communities are the Tribal communities that call this place home. Siskiyou has several tribes that call this place home including, the Karuk Tribe and the Quartz Valley Reservation, both are recognized federally. There is also the Shasta Nation, Winnemem Wintu, which are seeking Federal recognition. The Modoc nation also has ancestral land and ties to Eastern Siskiyou County. Every part of Siskiyou County has ties to the original Native inhabitants to the land. There are many sites that are considered sacred.
Nowadays, many travelers come to Siskiyou County in search of a sacred and mystical experience, especially on Mount Shasta. It is important to recognize that Indigenous local tribes also consider the mountain sacred and special. Many travelers mean well but sometimes their enthusiasm hurts the ecosystem and causes disrespect to local tribal traditions. A good example is Panther Meadows. This is an area considered sacred by the Winnemem Wintu and they hold a ceremony there every year. Unfortunately, spiritual tourist often leave crystals and other types of stones in the sacred spring. They wade into the spring or take water straight from the mouth of the spring instead of further downstream. Alpine flowers are cut and fragile vegetation is trampled. This is seen as extremely disrespectful. The Forest Services tries to protect these sites but it is up to each of us to do our part.
We must practice good stewardship and practice leave no trace behind. Siskiyou County has an abundance of beautiful natural beauty. It is important to honor and respect these lands like the original owners of the land did and continue to do to this day.
As you explore Siskiyou, take a moment to recognize the Indigenous communities who have cared for this region for thousands of years. One way to show respect is by learning their history with a visit to the Karuk People’s Museum in Happy Camp, or the Native American Heritage Park in Yreka. Attend an event, support native businesses and artisans, and lastly, make conscious choices that protect the natural environment they’ve long safeguarded. This honors the lands and the legacy of Indigenous people of Siskiyou.
About the Author
Carla Charraga graduated from UC Berkeley with a B.A. in Anthropology. Born in Mexico, Carla moved to the Bay Area at the age of nine. A resident of Siskiyou County since 2004. Carla met her husband, Mario Gonzales who is a Paiute, California Native, at a local sweat lodge. He holds a family drum called Earth Circle Drum. Carla and Mario were adopted by a Karuk elder and medicine man. Carla has Mayan and Chinese ancestry on her mom’s side and Otomi and Basque ancestry on her father’s side. She does cultural presentations, parenting classes, mental health workshop series, and is the Executive Director of Siskiyou Domestic Violence & Crisis Center.
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